Crane Mountain Trail

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Trail Distance:36 miles

Time Estimate:15 hr 50 min+

Elevation Gain:2731 feet

Leash Rule:On Leash

Difficulty:Hard

Parking:
Free

Route Type:Out-and-back

Restroom:Yes

Description

Oregon is a rural stack, with millions of acres of open space and wild landscapes to explore. One of the more popular spaces to roam is along the Crane Mountain Trail, which travels along the northern and southern parts of the mountain. The trail itself has been around for nearly 40 years, marked easily by the high traffic it has produced over the years. Compacted soil and loose rocks make up the path, although it's only a foot and a half wide for hikers.

The trailhead for Crane Mountain Trail begins at an unmarked parking lot on the side of the road in the Fremont–Winema National Forest. The trailhead does have restrooms, but no usable water. You and your pup will follow the path into the thick forests, walking under large alpines. The trail has an easy incline at first that passes by creeks and open meadows. Once you go further in, the incline becomes sharper as it starts to ascend the mountainside.

There are multiple overlooks along the trail, with some offering views of Goose Lake Valley, high deserts, and thick forests along the side of the mountain. Aside from viewing the scenes, people venturing to the trail will have plenty of activities to choose from too, like bicycling, camping, dog mushing, horseback riding, and motorized vehicle use along the first 8 miles of the trail.

There's plenty of other wildlife and vegetation along the route, like gorgeous wildflowers that grow in July. Once at the top, not only will you find gorgeous views of the surrounding peaks and valleys from the tallest peak in the county, but remnants of an old fire lookout post. The hike is a long and difficult one, but if you and Fido are experienced, the payoff will be worth it after enjoying a peaceful time in the mountains with views to die for.

Trail Features

Ice, Rocky, Steep Inclines, Forest, Mountains

Wildflowers, Scenic

Cautions & Considerations

Due to the peak's high elevation, snow can stay on the trail up until July and can ice up the path. The trail has a short width, so watch out for other hikers and/or motorized vehicles attempting to pass.